This Father’s Day, we’re celebrating craftsmanship, creativity, and the beauty of building something meaningful together.

One of our favorite stories this season comes from Haven Home, a Kansas City–based father-and-son duo. Greg McKinney and his twelve-year-old son work side by side to design and build handcrafted solid wood furniture. 

Each piece is thoughtfully made, rich in detail, and rooted in tradition. Every table, rack, and cabinet reflects not only skilled craftsmanship, but also the shared experience of learning, teaching, and creating together. It’s a reminder that the most meaningful things in our homes often come with a story.

We were honored to collaborate with Haven Home on our Verdant Morningside location (647 E 59th Street), where their work plays a central role in shaping the space. They designed and built several custom pieces throughout the store, including the front display table, two French-inspired plate racks, a long floral design work table, and a beautifully crafted sink vanity.

Paired with deVOL’s brass drawer handles, railings, light fixtures, and sink faucet, the furniture evokes the charm of a refined European cottage kitchen. The richness of dark walnut tones in the reclaimed barn wood contrasts softly with the lightness of the space, creating a store that feels layered, lived-in, and welcoming. It’s a look that balances elegance with comfort—our most home-forward Verdant design yet.

 

Verdant: Why did you start with creating tables and where did this passion come from?

Greg McKinney: Funny enough, this all began four years ago from the creative wants of my wife and my passion to make beautiful things. As we were designing our new home, Kate desired an old, hand-made prep table for her dream kitchen. We looked for months, but all of them were out of our kitchen budget. She wanted a prep table where she could bake, knead bread, cook, host, and prepare our daily meals. After a long time searching, she finally came up to me one day and asked if I thought I could make her one. I quickly said “sure,” not really knowing what all it would entail. But about a month later, the first “Cotswold Table” was made. Though I had always “created” with my hands, this was my first furniture piece. Little did I know it would open the door for all that has come.

V: How has the father and son dynamic developed over the years while working together?

GM: Working alongside your kids is always both stretching and rewarding. You get to see versions of them - and them you - that you didn't know previously. And though Jack was the only one who wanted to step in on builds originally, I now have “employed” all four of my older kids on various projects. Their attention to detail and love of design has really shaped a lot of the work we do. And over the past few years, I have been able to see and hone in on what each of them excel at and what their individual strengths bring to situations!

V: What has been your most surprising experience working together with your son

GM: When working specifically with Jack, I remember being surprised to find out just how great he is at problem solving. Without fail, he is gifted at coming up with quick solutions to any issue.

V: What is a special detail about the Verdant store pieces that you are most drawn to?

GM: Personally, I love the scallops and overall design of the plate/display racks! They were a lot of fun to shape and fit perfectly with the french detailing of the location.

V: Where do you see yourself creating in the next few years as Haven Homes?

GM: Over the past year, we have seen our client-base funnel into being amazing repeat clients who desire and prize  hand-made heirloom pieces for their home. With that said, it really helped nail down our brand and set a clear direction for what is coming - especially for those in our city desiring large island tables for their kitchens. And in this upcoming season, we are working towards full-style kitchen renovations that step outside of the ordinary “box cabinetry” - and are even nailing down the plans for a new 30x50 workshop and showroom!

This Father’s Day, we’re inspired by the story behind Haven Home. It’s a celebration of family, craftsmanship, and the beauty of creating something lasting—together.

Greg and his son take on a limited number of projects to ensure exceptional detail and craftsmanship. Learn more at https://www.haventableskc.com/